Binhui Shao

AI Impact Award Winner

Binhui Shao

Cambridge-based entrepreneur Binhui Shao was honoured with the AI Impact Award at the 72nd Women of the Year Lunch and Awards for her outstanding contribution to digital inclusion, social innovation, and technology-driven social impact. As the Founder of Easy Digital and Kairoo, Binhui’s work focuses on utilizing technology to remove barriers, build independence, and ensure digital access for all.

Pioneering Inclusive Technology

Binhui has dedicated her career to human-centred innovation designed to empower individuals across generations:

  • Easy Digital & The Internet Hub: Developed to improve digital access and independence for visually impaired and older individuals.
  • Kairoo: Applies a human-centred approach to help children and families build healthier, more confident, and independent relationships with technology.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Collaborates with leading accessibility organisations, including Talking Newspapers and British Wireless for the Blind.
  • Industry Recognition & Support: Backed by Microsoft’s Startups Founders Programme, receiving $150,000 in cloud computing and AI credits, and recognised as a recipient of a Women in Innovation Award.

Through her ongoing work, Binhui continues to champion greater digital inclusion while inspiring women to pursue impactful careers in innovation and technology.

“I am truly honoured to have won this award in a room full of phenomenal women committed to changing the world. One of the biggest barriers I have overcome during my career has been being taken seriously in a predominantly male-dominated field, so this is an incredibly special, full-circle moment. For me, the most exciting potential of AI is not simply what it can automate, but how it can help people become more capable and independent, particularly more vulnerable people. That idea has been a constant thread through my work. As a woman, one of the most powerful things you can do is to remain persistent and resilient in the face of a challenge, always believe in your vision and utilise both your unique insights and collective support networks to overcome the barriers you may face. Nothing is impossible and I hope the award I have received can inspire the next generation of ambitious women.” — Binhui Shao, Founder of Easy Digital & Kairoo

Chair’s Tribute:

“Binhui Shao has dedicated her impressive career to using innovation and technology to make a real, meaningful difference to people’s lives, breaking down barriers to digital access for those who are most at risk of being left behind. Through her unique vision, entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to social impact, Binhui has developed pioneering solutions that empower visually impaired and elderly people to access online content independently, helping to tackle social isolation and improve quality of life. At a time when artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way we live and work, Binhui has demonstrated the extraordinary potential of technology to be a force for good. Her thoughtful and inclusive approach to innovation is ensuring that the benefits of AI are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability or technical confidence. It’s an honour and a real privilege to recognise Binhui’s outstanding contribution to digital inclusion, social innovation and impact with the AI Impact Award at the Women of the Year Lunch and Awards.” — Diane Kenwood, Chair, Women of the Year